I can't remember the last time that I didn't use a primer before applying my foundation - it is just an integral part of my foundation routine & really extends the staying power of my base. However, I also like how a primer can blur pores & fine lines, brighten the complexion and act like polyfilla for the face! I have a number of primers, some I use more than others depending on what my skin needs & I thought I would share my thoughts on them with you today. FYI, I have dry skin that is prone to dehydration.

My number one, non-negotiable primer is Clarins Beauty Flash Balm. This is an instant perk-me-up for the skin and it really brightens the look of my skin. I apply this immediately before my foundation & I find that it helps my foundation apply more evenly and blend seamlessly. A similar product is Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm. This works in the same way as the Clarins and there is really very little difference between the two products. I adore them both & have reviewed them both here.

Another Clarins primer that I own, but don't love as much as the flash balm is the Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch. This product glides over the pores to smooth out any lumps & bumps and really does make the skin look better, however it doesn't brighten the skin in the way the flash balm does. However, if your skin isn't as dull as mine then this could be the one for you!

Pixi Flawless Beauty Primer is an amazing product, which really brightens the skin & I would even wear it alone because it gives that lit from within look to my skin. It also helps my foundation stay in place & is nicely hydrating.

Lancome Visionnaire Blur Primer is brilliant for blurring the appearance of pores, particularly on my cheeks. It is the most expensive of all of the primers that I own & therefore I don't wear it daily but it is one I can depend on to keep my foundation in place alllllllll day/night! Love it!

From Benefit, I own That Gal Brightening Face Primer, which really brightens my complexion and it has quite a tacky feel to it, so my foundation really sticks to it and Porefessional, which I have a sample size of. This product really does make my pores less noticeable, but I wouldn't use it on other areas of my face.

Finally, I have a generous sample size of Smashbox Photo Finish, which doesn't really suit my skin. I find that my foundation slips when I wear this so it is not a product that I would re-purchase.

I would love to hear any primer recommendations you have - for example; Laura Mercier primer or L'Oreal Lumi Magique or any others that you like. Also, I am on the hunt for a lip primer to extend the longevity of my lip products. Any recommendations?

6 comments

The only one I have from the bunch is the Smashbox version and I honestly don't see a difference to my makeup/skin when wearing it, hence why I rarely use a primer. Really want to try the Clarins Beauty Flash Balm as it sounds amazing & it might change my mind on primers all together x

I really want to try Benefit That Gal! Stila's one step correct is pretty nice. It doesn't massively prolong my makeup but it does feel quite moisturising without being greasy and it helps my thicker, more matte foundations go on better without clinging to dry patches :) x